What is strictly forbidden to do on November 28: the main winter prohibitions of the national calendar

On November 28, the national calendar celebrates the day that was considered the boundary between autumn and winter. On this date, they observed nature, put the house in order, and strictly monitored what actions could bring on cold, illness, or financial difficulties. What traditions are associated with this day can be found in the Izvestia article.

History and traditions of November 28 in the national calendar

In the national calendar, November 28 is traditionally associated with the beginning of the winter period and the transition to a strict economic order. In Russia, this date was called the day of Gury, Samon and Aviv, after the names of early Christian saints, whose memory is celebrated by the Orthodox Church. In village communities, the date symbolically ended the autumn household chores and opened the preparation time for the long cold season. By this time, most of the field work was completed, the last stale root crops were removed, the condition of barns and cellars was checked, and rural buildings were insulated.

Traditionally, it was on this day that special attention was paid to the state of nature. The old men watched the wind, snow and temperature, trying to determine what the beginning of winter would be like. If the morning turned out to be clear, it was considered a sign of calm and frosty weather in the coming weeks. Strong winds or sleet were interpreted as a harbinger of a change in the weather and possible thaws. Special importance was attached to the behavior of domestic animals: it was believed that if livestock behaved restlessly, the winter would be unstable and changeable. The observations were recorded in family records and used in further economic decisions.

In some regions, November 28 was considered a kind of threshold of winter — a time when they moved to a more measured rhythm of life, paid attention to home, crafts and cooking, designed for long cold weather.

The women began winter needlework cycles: spinning, mending clothes, preparing warm clothes for the whole family. The men were putting household equipment in order and repairing tools that would be needed in late winter and early spring.

Traditional prohibitions related to the beginning of the winter period

The prohibitions related to November 28 were primarily aimed at ensuring the safety of the household and family at the beginning of the cold weather. According to folk tradition, it was strongly discouraged to start quarrels and sort things out on this day.

It was believed that the conflict that arose on November 28 "escalates" into a long winter and accompanies the house until spring. Therefore, we tried to maintain a calm atmosphere, avoid loud conversations and harsh decisions.

There was a ban on heavy physical labor, especially associated with prolonged exposure to the street. In popular beliefs, this could lead to a "withdrawal of forces" before the winter period or attract diseases.

Women were not recommended to wash and knock out clothes, as such actions "knocked the heat out of the house." It was also forbidden to make loud noises, knock on walls and furniture — such actions were considered bait for evil spirits, which were "easier" to get into the house with the onset of winter nights.

What can I do on this day?

Despite the large number of restrictions, November 28 was considered an auspicious day for household chores related to tidying up and preparing for winter. People said that everything done on this day to strengthen the house would be beneficial. Therefore, the housewives were cleaning, sorting through things, checking the integrity of pillows and feather beds, replenishing the supply of candles and dry fuel.

Special attention was paid to family communication. According to beliefs, the day was considered suitable for quiet conversations, discussing plans for the winter, joint needlework and reading.

Also on this day, it was allowed to engage in light crafts — embroidery, spinning, repairing clothes, making useful household items. Making gifts for family members was a good omen — it was considered a way to attract prosperity and warm relations. In a number of regions, there was a tradition to prepare a warm drink from berries or herbs: it was drunk in the evening to meet the winter in a good mood.